Throughout the state of Texas in 2024, a total of over 39,000 commercial vehicle crashes (including 18-wheeler accidents) were reported, responsible for the deaths of over 600 people and for injuring approximately 20,000 others. In other words, more than 3,000 collisions involving commercial vehicles happened every month last year, a figure that comes out to more than 100 each day.
Experienced truck accident lawyers understand that commercial vehicle crashes can cause catastrophic harm to motorcyclists and occupants of passenger cars. But the fact of the matter is that these occurrences are rarely “accidents” at their core. Instead, they are most frequently the result of one or more common factors, each of which can be traced back to someone’s negligence.
Primary Culprits Behind Texas 18-Wheeler Accidents
In representing the victim of such a crash, an 18 wheeler accident lawyer will review the relevant police reports, witness statements, electronic data, and other available evidence to determine how the accident happened and the at-fault party.
Every wreck is different, but one or more of the following factors are likely to play a role in these accidents than not:
Improper Supervision
Any truck company that allows an untrained driver to operate a rig, or puts a driver with a history of accidents or moving violations back onto the road, is displaying a form of recklessness that can increase the likelihood of someone getting seriously hurt in a crash.
Speeding and Unsafe Lane Changes
A driver’s pay and continued employment often hinge upon how quickly they can deliver their cargo to its destination. If a trucker delivers loads quickly, they’re likely to be assigned more deliveries.
That, in turn, creates a financial incentive for truck drivers to reach their destinations as quickly as possible. Truck drivers will speed, make sudden lane changes, or engage in other dangerous behavior to save every second they can. If other cars on the road are not careful, they can collide with these trucks. Alternatively, the truck driver might lose control of their rig altogether and crash.
Distracted Driving
The cab of an 18-wheeler can be a busy place full of distractions. Beyond the trucker’s cell phone, navigation and communication equipment require constant monitoring. Add to that the fact that truck drivers frequently eat and drink on the go, and it’s clear to see how a trucker’s hands and eyes can be pulled away from safely operating their rig.
Improper Loading or Overweight Loads
A truck that is overweight or has improperly balanced cargo will not brake as efficiently or safely. Moreover, it can overturn or jackknife, dramatically increasing the odds of a crash. While drivers are responsible for knowing their vehicles’ weight and load distribution, freight companies may be held accountable if they carelessly load a trailer beyond its capacity.
Tire, Brake, and Other Mechanical Defects
Trucks are complex machines that require regular inspections and maintenance to identify and replace worn parts. A truck’s tires, brakes, and safety lighting are all susceptible to wear and tear; should they fail, the entire vehicle can become uncontrollable and wreck, injuring the driver and others nearby.
Drug or Alcohol Impairment
Truck drivers who consume alcohol or drugs are not capable of controlling their rigs safely. They can make grievous errors when driving around other vehicles, fail to see stopped traffic ahead of them, or engage in reckless driving without realizing it. Even some prescription medications can impair a truck driver and make them and their truck a danger to others.
Driver Fatigue
Driving for long stretches can drain a driver’s attention and endurance. Although federal and state rules limit how long a driver can operate a truck, it is not uncommon for truckers to get drowsy before reaching that limit (and for employers to push them beyond it), which can make it more challenging for them to navigate traffic and safely control their truck.
Weather-Related Factors
Texas weather can be unpredictable and dangerous, especially for 18-wheelers. Should such a truck crash because of slippery roads (or overturn in high winds), it is not just the truck driver at risk of injury; other nearby motorists are also put in harm’s way.
FAQ
What Should I Consider After Receiving a Settlement Offer From the Trucking Company?
If a trucking company believes it is responsible for your crash, you’ll likely receive a settlement offer quickly. However, these offers may not fully compensate you or even address the majority of your bills. An 18-wheeler accident lawyer can review your case and advise you on whether to accept it or reject the offer.
Do I Have to Give a Recorded Statement to the Trucker’s Insurance Company Before Recovering Compensation?
No, and you should refuse to do so without first talking to your attorney. Insurance companies may say they are only interested in knowing how the accident occurred, but they will often use your statements to find reasons to lowball or deny any settlement to you. Do not give any statement to an insurer without having your attorney present.
How Much Time Do I Have to File a Claim After an 18-Wheeler Accident?
Generally, your truck accident injury claim should be filed within two years of the date of your crash. Some exceptions shorten that timeframe, however, so it is always beneficial to consult with an experienced lawyer.
Seek Help From Ramsey Law Group
At Ramsey Law Group, our 18-wheeler accident attorneys have helped numerous clients hurt in truck accidents hold drivers and their employers accountable and recover compensation for their losses. Contact us today to learn the value of your case and how we can help you recover the compensation that is yours.